On December 22, 2021, District of Columbia Mayor Murial Bowser issued an order requiring vaccines for entrance to certain indoor facilities. Facilities subject to the vaccine mandate include food and drink establishments, cultural and entertainment establishments, exercise and recreation facilities, event and meeting establishments, and any other indoor establishment designated by the Director of the DC Department of Health. Some facilities, like retail establishments, houses of worship, hotels (except meeting rooms and restaurants), and healthcare facilities are not covered by the rule and do not have to verify patrons’ vaccination status.

Under Mayor Bowser’s order, patrons ages 12 years and older must provide acceptable proof of vaccination in order to enter covered indoor establishments. Acceptable forms of proof are CDC-issued vaccination cards (including copies and digital copies), records of immunization from healthcare providers or public health authorities, COVID-19 verification apps, and World Health Organization Vaccination Records. Facilities must verify proof of vaccination with a photo identification for patrons ages 18 years and older.

The order includes limited exemptions. Facilities do not have to verify the vaccination status of patrons who are only entering briefly (e.g. using the restroom, picking up an order to go). Medical and religious exemptions are available, but patrons must show documentation of their inability to be vaccinated and provide proof of a negative PCR or antigen test taken within the past 24 hours.

Businesses covered by the order must display a notice informing patrons that proof of vaccination is required to enter any indoor portion of the establishment. Proof of vaccination is not required for employees of covered establishments.